BMW developing new off-road SUV to compete with G-Class and Defender, positioning it as replacement for XM model
New BMW X8 Off-Roader: A Luxury Powerhouse in the Making
BMW is set to introduce a new off-roader to its lineup, the X8, which promises to combine high performance with top-tier luxury. The upcoming SUV, internally codenamed G74, is expected to hit the shelves in 2029.
The X8 will be positioned at the pinnacle of BMW's 'X' lineup, offering a bold and sporty design alongside premium interior materials such as leather upholstery, open-pore wood trim, and aluminum accents. The vehicle will feature multiple configuration options for exterior styling and wheel sizes, emphasizing both elegance and athleticism.
Key anticipated specifications and features include:
- Powertrain options: The X8 will offer an inline 6-cylinder engine, a twin-turbocharged V8, and a plug-in hybrid variant. The high-performance M trim is expected to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 3.8 seconds, with a top speed around 290 km/h.
- Technology: The X8 will feature a curved digital display integrating instrument cluster and infotainment with the newest iDrive software. It will also include augmented reality navigation, advanced voice control, and over-the-air software updates.
- Interior luxury: The executive-style rear seating will offer enhanced legroom, individual climate controls, and entertainment screens. Ambient lighting and a panoramic sunroof will enhance the cabin atmosphere.
- Customization: The X8 will offer a variety of wheel sizes and exterior finishes to suit personal tastes.
The X8 is expected to deliver a combination of off-road capability, high performance, and luxury comfort, positioning it as a premium, versatile SUV with strong powertrain choices and advanced technology features.
The new BMW off-roader will initially be offered with an internal combustion engine, but hybrid/electric powertrains are not ruled out. It will be underpinned by a heavily modified version of the CLAR platform and is expected to be produced at BMW's Spartanburg plant in the US.
Meanwhile, BMW has announced a price hike of up to 3% across its range, effective from September 1. The new BMW off-roader's specific launch date and price details for the Indian market are not yet available.
On the other hand, the Land Rover Defender continues to hold a strong cult and has been a massive hit for the British automaker, being their bestseller in the Indian market. The Audi RS Q8 and the Porsche 911 GT3 are other luxury SUVs and sports cars priced around ₹ 2.10 Cr to ₹ 2.75 Cr in India.
The Mercedes-Benz Maybach EQS, priced at approximately ₹ 2.28 Cr, offers a battery capacity of 122 kWh and has a range of 611 km. The Lotus Eletre, priced at approximately ₹ 2.55 Cr, has a battery capacity of 112 kWh and a range of 610 km. The Lexus LM, priced at approximately ₹ 2.10 Cr, has a displacement of 2487 cc. The BMW XM, priced at approximately ₹ 2.60 Cr, has a displacement of 4395 cc. The G-Class, a globally popular off-road icon, has sold over six lakh units since its arrival in 1979.
The new BMW off-roader will be a new seven-seater offering, joining the lineup of popular off-road vehicles and likely to be introduced in India after its global debut.
[1] Source: www.motor1.com [2] Source: www.caranddriver.com [3] Source: www.autocar.co.uk [4] Source: www.topgear.com [5] Source: www.cnet.com
- The anticipated powertrain options for the new BMW X8, such as an inline 6-cylinder engine, a twin-turbocharged V8, and a plug-in hybrid variant, demonstrate that the vehicle will cater not only to the luxury and off-road segments but also to the finance and automotive industry's emphasis on sustainability and advancements in technology.
- With the new BMW X8 boasting a presence in the transportation sector, rivaling luxury SUVs and sports cars such as the Land Rover Defender, Audi RS Q8, Porsche 911 GT3, Mercedes-Benz Maybach EQS, Lotus Eletre, Lexus LM, and the iconic G-Class, it is evident that the automotive industry has placed a significant emphasis on the creation and expansion of premium, versatile, and luxury vehicle offerings in the finance sector.
